Manhoef ready to 'get rocking' for new season

Million Manhoef joined Stoke from Dutch club Vitesse Arnhem in January 2024

Stoke City forward Million Manhoef says he "can't wait to get rocking" this season and is confident the Potters are building a squad capable of improving on a disappointing 2024-25.

Given Stoke only secured their Championship status on the final day last season, finishing two points above the relegation zone, that should not be too difficult.

But, heading into an eighth straight season in the second tier, Stoke fans will feel a sustained challenge for promotion back to the Premier League is very overdue.

"For the team, the ambition is always to aim as high as possible," Manhoef told BBC Radio Stoke.

"We've had some hard years but we want to finish as high as we can, of course, and we are building a team that can do that."

Four players have come in so far this summer - former West Ham left-back Aaron Cresswell, Wales winger Sorba Thomas, on-loan Manchester City striker Divin Mubama and defender Maksym Talovierov.

And Manhoef, who is now back with Stoke after playing in the European Under-21 Championship with the Netherlands, says the vibe at the club is optimistic.

"You are always confident, and last year was the same, but now we have a more stable group with not so many changes," he said.

"When the patterns are right and the structure is right the players can get a new level and that's what the coaches are trying to do - getting people to shine.

"If everything goes how we want it then I can get high eyes and we'll see where we end up.

"It's quite early to say what our ambitions are but we want a better season than last year. I love playing at the bet365 [stadium] and I can't wait to get rocking."